Archive for the ‘Basement Jaxx’ Category

When I’m hearing a new Basement Jaxx record, I’m usually prepared for the following: 4 really hot tracks, and some filler (of which is still better than the hot tracks of some of their peers).  So, I figured I’d be in for the same thing this time around with their brand new release, Scars.  I was pleasantly surprised.

he real highlight of the album, for me, is the title track “Scars,” which features Kelis, Meleka, and Chipmunk.  This seems to jump out of all sorts of boxes.  It’s out of the normal realm of Basement Jaxx, and it’s out of the normal realm of hip-hop.  My friend, Lee, and I have discussions about the state of music, especially hip hop, all the time.  For years, I’ve been telling him, “you know, the only direction hip hop has left to go is to sample a lot of different classical selections,” and finally, Basement Jaxx listened to me in the year 2009.  Not to say this sounds like a symphony, the choral sample is just a part of the overall feel.  Fantastic way to start the record. The single, Raindrops, is also a killer track, bound to be an instant club classic.  And for those who are looking for that “old time jazz cut” that they’re so good at making, “What’s A Girl Gotta Do,” featuring Paloma Faith will leave you very satisfied.  And let’s face it, who else but Basement Jaxx is going to take a 76-year old Yoko Ono and make her sound relevant to today’s music scene?  Hell, not even JOHN LENNON could successfully pull that off.  Remember her material on the album “Double Fantasy?”

Overall, I’d have to say this is a strong record.  As per usual, there’s plenty of guests, and plenty of twists in the sound to keep you occupied for the 53 minutes needs to take you on its very funky and fresh journey. 3.5 out of 5 stars.

~Mark Massi